Obituary of Jimmy Ritchie Willen

Jimmy Richard Willen, 69, passed away Thursday, October 26, 2017. Jimmy was born September 6, 1948 in Akron to the late Carvin & Betty Sloan and was a lifelong area resident. He was a patient and kind man who truly enjoyed his 20 years working in a variety of positions at the Western Reserve state mental hospital, from administration to patient counseling. In his retirement, Jimmy taught at Stark-State and helped residents Wayside Farms with the animal & gardening programs. Always putting others first, Jimmy was sensitive, caring, and willing to give people a second chance. In spite of lifelong health issues, Jimmy made the most of life—he loved camping with his family in the Mohican Valley; he was a social member of the Lonestar Fraternity, and enjoyed playing co-ed volleyball & football when he was able. Jimmy will be deeply missed by his wife of 39 years, Ellen (Mitchen) and their son Jesse.; sister Janie Gorring; nieces Meredith (Damien) Nyeste & son Matthias, Michelle Gorring (John Livigni) & son Giovanni and Melanie (Kyle) Romig and daughter Elia; and many other dear friends & loved ones. Many thanks to all of his specialty physicians who provided their compassionate care that helped him throughout his life, especially Dr. Christopher Boshkos his nephrologist. Funeral services will be held 1PM on Saturday, November 18 at the Anthony Funeral Home, Kucko-Anthony-Kertesz Chapel, 1990 S Main St in Akron, where the family will receive friends beginning at 11AM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kidney Foundation of Ohio, Development Department, 2831 Prospect Avenue Cleveland, OH 44115.